System for digital recording protection and electrochromic device frame

ABSTRACT

An augmented reality (AR) device includes a frame and multiple front facing cameras connected with the frame. A first electrochromic material is connected with the frame, removably connected to a power source, and disposed over the multiple front facing cameras. AR display circuitry is connected to the frame and the power source. A mode state of the AR device is modified based on a detected do-not-record permission.

COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document may contain materialthat is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure as it appears in the patent and trademarkoffice patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightrights whatsoever.

TECHNICAL FIELD

One or more embodiments relate generally to augmented reality (AR)systems, and in particular, to digital recording protection with ARdevices.

BACKGROUND

As the proliferation of digital devices continues to increase, thenumber of cameras in personal and private spaces also continues toincrease. These image sensors are “free” in that the user can take apicture of anyone they want and whenever they want. Privacy alsocontinues to be a growing concern. Wireless carriers in certaincountries and some governments have mandated, or at a minimum signaledan intent to mandate, regulations around enforcing a shutter sound oncamera phones as a form of awareness of privacy.

SUMMARY

One or more embodiments relate to digital recording protection withaugmented reality (AR) devices. In one embodiment, an AR device includesa frame and multiple front facing cameras connected with the frame. Afirst electrochromic material is connected with the frame, removablyconnected to a power source, and disposed over the multiple front facingcameras. AR display circuitry is connected to the frame and the powersource. A mode state of the AR device is modified based on a detecteddo-not-record permission.

In another embodiment, an AR wearable device includes a frame connectedwith a first folding arm and a second folding arm. Multiple front facingcameras are connected with the frame. A first electrochromic material isconnected with the frame, removably coupled to a power source, anddisposed over the multiple front facing cameras. AR display circuitry isconnected with the frame and the power source. A mode state of the ARwearable device provides a viewable indication based on charging ordischarging of energy from the first electrochromic material.

In one embodiment, a method for wearable device image recording privacyincludes detecting, by an AR device including at least one camera, asignal or informative image. Information from the signal or theinformative image is extracted for determining do-not-record permission.A zone for the determined do-not-record permission is determined. The ARdevice detects a current location with respect to the zone. Anelectrochromic material of the AR device or a recorded image result ismodified based on the determined do-not-record permission.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the one or moreembodiments will become understood with reference to the followingdescription, appended claims and accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of an augmented reality (AR) digitalglasses with recording protection, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 2 shows a hinge and smart connector for the AR digital glasses withrecording protection, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 3A shows a result of power on and off for electrochromic device(ECD) material employed with the AR digital glasses with recordingprotection, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 3B shows mode states of the AR digital glasses with recordingprotection, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 4 shows a block flow diagram for an AR mode state for the ARdigital glasses with recording protection, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 5 shows the AR digital glasses with recording protection in the ARmode state, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 6 shows a block flow diagram for an etiquette mode state for the ARdigital glasses with recording protection, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 7 shows a block flow diagram for the etiquette mode state for theAR digital glasses with recording protection during a conversation withanother person present, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 8 shows a block flow diagram for the etiquette mode state for theAR digital glasses with recording protection when worn in public,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 9 shows a block flow diagram for the etiquette mode state for theAR digital glasses with recording protection when in proximity of ado-not-record signal or beacon, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 10 shows a block flow diagram for the etiquette mode state for theAR digital glasses with recording protection when in proximity of a signindicating that privacy may be warranted, according to some embodiments.

FIGS. 11A-B shows different mode states of the AR digital glasses withrecording protection for the AR mode state (FIG. 11A) with an armopened, and when in a privacy mode state with an arm closed (FIG. 11B;AR mode state is off), according to some embodiments.

FIG. 12 shows the AR digital glasses with recording protection with bothframe arms folded for the privacy mode state (AR mode state is off),according to some embodiments.

FIG. 13 shows a block flow diagram for the privacy mode state (AR modestate off) for the AR digital glasses with recording protection,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 14 shows a block diagram of internal components of the AR digitalglasses with recording protection, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 15 shows the path light takes into the front of the AR digitalglasses with recording protection, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 16 shows a flow diagram for a do-not-record (DNR) geographicalsignal or beacon being present for the AR digital glasses with recordingprotection, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 17A shows a flow diagram for a DNR personal signal or beacon beingpresent for the AR digital glasses with recording protection, accordingto some embodiments.

FIG. 17B shows a table for different scenarios, the state anddescription for the flow diagram in FIG. 17A, according to someembodiments.

FIGS. 18A-B show an example of signal or beacon zones used for multipleDNR zones or for zones where recording is allowed for persons present inview of the AR digital glasses that have recording protection, accordingto some embodiments.

FIGS. 19A-B shows an example of a DNR signal or beacon zone for abuilding or structure in view of the AR digital glasses with recordingprotection, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 20A shows an example of full pixilation filter and partial visualblocking filter for the AR digital glasses with recording protection,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 20B shows an example of using AR virtual elements for informationand for partial disguise of a person from the perspective of the ARdigital glasses with recording protection, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 21 shows a block diagram of electronic components for the ARdigital glasses with recording protection, according to someembodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is made for the purpose of illustrating thegeneral principles of one or more embodiments and is not meant to limitthe inventive concepts claimed herein. Further, particular featuresdescribed herein can be used in combination with other describedfeatures in each of the various possible combinations and permutations.Unless otherwise specifically defined herein, all terms are to be giventheir broadest possible interpretation including meanings implied fromthe specification as well as meanings understood by those skilled in theart and/or as defined in dictionaries, treatises, etc.

One or more embodiments relate to digital recording protection withaugmented reality (AR) devices. In one embodiment, an AR device includesa frame and multiple front facing cameras connected with the frame. Afirst electrochromic material is connected with the frame, removablyconnected to a power source, and disposed over the multiple front facingcameras. AR display circuitry is connected to the frame and the powersource. A mode state of the AR device is modified based on a detecteddo-not-record permission.

Some embodiments solve the problem of providing a privacy system thatenables trust with the user by providing them with control of theirdigital presence and transparency of what their AR device is doing inthe wearable and smartphone space. The problem regarding privacy willonly amplify as more cameras and sensors become omnipresent in publicand private settings.

Existing consumer electronics products are typically made of materials,which at the time of production are set with a single state of lighttransparency through it. That is—the production of that material allowsfor only a set level of light to pass through it, and this cannot bemodified after production. For example, if the designer of an electronicproduct wants 50% of light to pass through, this will reveal asemi-opaque view of the electronics contained within; and this cannotchange once the manufacturing process is complete as well as throughoutthe life of the product. The consumer product landscape does not exhibitan electronic product that has the ability to modify the transparencylevel of the encompassing material that is being used to house aconsumer electronics product after time of manufacture—that is there isno dynamic ability to adjust the amount of light that is passed throughthe enclosing structure of the consumer electronic device.

Though there has always been a sensitivity around being recorded inpublic, recent data breaches and people's increased usage of digitalproducts has increased society's sensitivity towards privacyconcerns—both digital and physical. For example, with video recording,the traditional light emitting diode (LED) showing “LED on” on a cameraindicates that the camera is recording, but can easily be circumventedand may be socially unacceptable. The only true method to ensure that acamera is not recording something is to physically occlude the lightpassing through to the camera sensor.

Mechanical camera lens covers come in either manual or automaticconfigurations. Manual camera covers are usually bulky and only workwhen the user remembers to open or close the lens cover. Conventionalautomatic mechanical camera lens covers usually require motors and powerto move a plastic/metal cover over the camera lens and may addsignificant bulk and power requirements. Additionally, automaticmechanical mechanisms in small form factors add extra cost for theirminiaturized properties. Lastly, mechanical mechanisms may have a slowopen and close time, which impedes dynamically opening/closing thecamera lens in an always-on recording situation.

FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of augmented reality (AR) digital glasses100 with recording protection, according to some embodiments. In one ormore embodiments, the AR digital glasses 100 includes front cover glass105, electrochromic device (ECD) film (or material) cover 110, waveguide material 115, frame 120, camera housings 130/135, lenses 140(e.g., prescription, non-prescription), center camera 155 (and othersensors (e.g., motion sensor, microphone(s), temperature sensor,proximity sensor, photoelectric sensor, position sensor (e.g., globalpositioning system (GPS) sensor or receiver circuitry), a BLUETOOTH®receiver or transceiver, etc.)), center camera housing 180, left andright front cameras 156, frame arms 150 with ear pieces 151, battery170, left and right side cameras 157 and controller (circuitry) 165,side camera housing 190 and 191 for left and right side cameras 157,controller cable 175, left and right hinges 158 with smart connectors210 (FIG. 2 ), display engine 160, and left and right side housings 192.

In some embodiments, the AR digital glasses 100 includes ECD film (ormaterial) placed as a front layer of the AR digital glasses (ECD filmcover 110) that may block front-facing cameras (center camera 155, leftand right front cameras 156), and placed along the internal portions ofthe frame arms 150 with earpieces 151 that may block side-facing cameras(left and right side cameras 157) and hide other internal components.The controller cable 175 connects ECD film elements to the controller165 and the battery 170 (e.g., rechargeable battery) for power and datacommunication. Sensor circuitry is employed for detection of variousscenarios that require switching between operation mode states asdescribed below. In some embodiments, the cameras (center camera 155,left and right front cameras 156) record and process the area that auser's head is pointed towards when donning the AR digital glasses 100.In using the AR digital glasses 100, the AR may include overlayingvisual, auditory, or other sensory information onto the visualized worldin order to enhance the user's experience.

FIG. 2 shows a hinge 158 (either left or right hinges 158) and smartconnector 210 for the AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recordingprotection, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, thehinge 158 with smart connector 210 contains pogo pins that create amechanical circuit to provide power connection between the battery 170and the ECD film (ECD film cover 110, and ECD film placed along theinternal portions of the frame arms 150 and earpieces 151). In one ormore embodiments, by folding the frame arms, the hinge 158 automaticallydisconnects from the controller 165 and battery 170, which turns the ECDfilm (ECD film cover 110, and ECD film placed along the internalportions of the frame arms 150 and earpieces 151) from transparent toopaque in order to block the cameras (center camera 155, left and rightfront cameras 156, left and right side cameras 157). Upon unfolding theframe arms 150 with earpieces 151 (the display engine 160 connects tothe battery 170) to wear and experience full features of the AR glasses100. With the frame arms 150 with earpieces 151 are unfolded, the ECDfilm layer appears transparent (i.e., appears as ordinary glass) to letthe cameras (center camera 155, left and right front cameras 156, leftand right side cameras 157) and other sensors see through the outerlayers of the AR digital glasses 100. This state is referred to as theAR mode state.

FIG. 3A shows a result 300 of power on and off for the ECD film (ormaterial) employed with the AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) withrecording protection, according to some embodiments. If the power is on(i.e., the frame arms 150 with earpieces 151 are unfolded), the ECD filmcover 110 and the ECD film placed along the internal portions of theframe arms 150 with earpieces 151 appear transparent. If the power isoff (i.e., the frame arms 150 with earpieces 151 are folded), the ECDfilm cover 110 and the ECD film placed along the internal portions ofthe frame arms 150 with earpieces 151 appear opaque (and block or hidethe internal components behind the ECD film cover 110 and frame arms 150with earpieces 151).

FIG. 3B shows mode states 305 of the AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 )with recording protection, according to some embodiments. In one or moreembodiments, there are three (3) mode states: AR mode state 310,etiquette mode state 320 and privacy mode state 330 (AR mode state isoff). In the AR mode state 310, the frame arms 150 with earpieces 151 ofthe AR digital glasses 100 are unfolded, and the user is wearing the ARdigital glasses 100. The ECD film in the AR mode state is transparent(the ECD film cover 110, and ECD film placed along the internal portionsof the frame arms 150 and earpieces 151). In the etiquette mode state320, the frame arms 150 with earpieces 151 of the AR digital glasses 100are unfolded, and the user is wearing the AR digital glasses 100. TheECD film in the etiquette mode state 320 is opaque (the ECD film cover110, and ECD film placed along the internal portions of the frame arms150 and earpieces 151). In the privacy mode state 330, the frame arms150 with earpieces 151 of the AR digital glasses 100 are folded, and theuser is not wearing the AR digital glasses 100 (e.g., on a table, in theuser's hand, etc.). The ECD film in the privacy mode state 330 is opaque(the ECD film cover 110, and ECD film placed along the internal portionsof the frame arms 150 and earpieces 151).

FIG. 4 shows a block flow diagram 400 for the AR mode state for the ARdigital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recording protection, according tosome embodiments. In the AR mode state, the ECD film (the ECD film cover110, and ECD film placed along the internal portions of the frame arms150 and earpieces 151) removes the physical occlusion between thebuilt-in cameras (center camera 155, left and right front cameras 156,left and right side cameras 157) and the environment and outwardly letsthe other people in public see that the cameras are present and in use,therefore eliminating any doubt that the cameras are on. Thus, a firststep to starting build trust in the technology, which eventually maylead to societal acceptance of the technology. Having only an LEDindicator set to “off” while the camera is not operating does notdigitally or physically guarantee that they are really off, which couldquickly raise privacy concerns. Additionally, in the AR mode state theinternal circuitry is visible and not being hidden; again with thislevel of full disclosure helping to establish trust with users.

In some embodiments, in block 410, the user unfolds the frame arms 150and earpieces 151 to wear the AR digital glasses 100. In block 420, theunfolding of the frame arms 150 and earpieces 151 mechanicallyreconnects the open circuit caused by the left and right hinges 158 toclose the power circuit with the battery 170. In block 430, the ECD film(the ECD film cover 110, and ECD film placed along the internal portionsof the frame arms 150 and earpieces 151) connects to the battery 170 (ifthe battery 170 is charged). In block 440 the state of the ECD film hasthe electric current applied such that in block 450 the liquid crystalmolecules in the ECD film line up. In block 460 the incidental lightpasses through the ECD film, and the ECD film appears transparent (i.e.,looks like ordinary glass) in block 470. In block 480 the cameras,sensors, lighting and internal components may be seen through thehousing elements of the AR digital glasses 100.

FIG. 5 shows the AR digital glasses 100 with recording protection in theAR mode state, according to some embodiments. As shown, ECD film of theAR digital glasses 100 appears transparent (looks like ordinary glass),which provides the cameras (center camera 155, left and right frontcameras 156, left and right side cameras 157) and other sensors to beseen through the AR digital glasses 100. In the AR mode state, thelighting 510 and 511 (e.g., LED, etc.), left and right front cameras156, and center camera 155 through the center camera housing 180, alongwith the internal housings 520 and 525 of the respective left and rightframe arms 150 and earpieces 151 are visible to alert anyone nearby thata camera may be recording them.

FIG. 6 shows a block flow diagram 600 for an etiquette mode state forthe AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recording protection,according to some embodiments. In one or more embodiments, in theetiquette mode state the AR digital glasses 100 automatically (ormanually selected the user) turns the ECD film (the ECD film cover 110,and ECD film placed along the internal portions of the frame arms 150and earpieces 151) from transparent to opaque to block the cameras(center camera 155, left and right front cameras 156, left and rightside cameras 157) in conjunction with stopping the AR functionalityand/or camera functionality not being used. This makes the wearableframe 120 look like normal eye/sunglasses and thus maximizes the amountof social acceptability by others in the public space or in closeproximity to the wearer. The ECD film in the etiquette mode statecreates physical occlusion between the built-in cameras (center camera155, left and right front cameras 156, left and right side cameras 157)and the environment and it helps users to build trust in the technology;and then next into acceptance. Having only LED indicators ON while acamera is operating does not guarantee the true state and may raiseprivacy concerns. For example, some AR glasses have been banned frommany places because the built-in camera raised privacy and piracyconcerns (e.g., the sound of the camera shutter on cell phones withbuilt-in cameras cannot be muted in Korea by law, but there are a lot ofapps available which disable the sound, an LED record indicator may bedisabled, failed, painted, etc.).

In some embodiments, in block 610 the etiquette mode state is initiated(e.g., based on sensed presence, a received signal, a beacon,geolocation, GPS determined location, etc.). In block 620 the ECD film(the ECD film cover 110, and ECD film placed along the internal portionsof the frame arms 150 and earpieces 151) disconnects from the battery170 (FIG. 1 ). In block 630 the electricity from the ECD film isdischarged. In block 640 the ECD film liquid crystal molecules arerandomly oriented and scatter the incidental light. In block 650 the ECDfilm blocks incoming light sources from passing through the ECD film. Inblock 660, the ECD film appears opaque, which hides the cameras, sensorsand other components behind the ECD layer.

FIG. 7 shows a block flow diagram 700 for the etiquette mode state forthe AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recording protection during aconversation with another person present, according to some embodiments.In one or more embodiments, the AR digital glasses 100 automaticallyturns the ECD film (the ECD film cover 110, and ECD film placed alongthe internal portions of the frame arms 150 and earpieces 151) opaque(hiding the cameras (center camera 155, left and right front cameras156, left and right side cameras 157) behind) while having aconversation with other people to inform or show them that the camerasare not recording as they are physically blocked. This will stop the ARfunctionality as well (e.g., from the display engine 160), once againstriving to achieve maximum public trust and acceptance.

In some embodiments, in block 705 a person is approaching the wearer(within the field of view of a camera (e.g., center camera 155, left andright front cameras 156, left and right side cameras 157, FIG. 1 )) ofthe AR digital glasses 100. In block 710, the person that approachedstarts having conversations with the wearer (outside the field of viewof a camera (e.g., center camera 155, left and right front cameras 156,left and right side cameras 157, FIG. 1 )) of the AR digital glasses100. In block 715 one of the cameras (e.g., center camera 155, left andright front cameras 156, left and right side cameras 157, FIG. 1 )detects a person (e.g., using one or more motion sensors, computervision techniques (computer vision is a field of artificial intelligence(Al) enabling computers and systems to derive meaningful informationfrom digital images, videos and other visual inputs, and take actions ormake recommendations based on that information, facial recognition,object recognition, etc.), and in block 720 a microphone receives audiosound and the AR digital glasses 100 detects voices from the receivedaudio sound. In block 730 the etiquette mode state is initialized. Inblock 740 the ECD film (the ECD film cover 110, and ECD film placedalong the internal portions of the frame arms 150 and earpieces 151)disconnects from the battery 170, and the ECD film discharges from theelectricity being removed in block 750. In block 760 the ECD film liquidcrystal molecules are randomly oriented and scatters incidental light.In block 770, the ECD film blocks incoming light sources from passingthrough the ECD film. In block 780, the ECD material appears opaque,which hides the cameras and other sensors behind the ECD layer of the ARdigital glasses 100.

FIG. 8 shows a block flow diagram 800 for the etiquette mode state forthe AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recording protection when wornin public, according to some embodiments. In one or more embodiments, inthe etiquette mode state in restricted public or private spaces (e.g.,GPS based, latitude/longitude is known as a do-not-record (DNR) zone,etc.), the AR digital glasses 100 automatically turn the ECD film (theECD film cover 110, and ECD film placed along the internal portions ofthe frame arms 150 and ear pieces 151) from transparent to opaque toblock the cameras (e.g., center camera 155, left and right front cameras156, left and right side cameras 157, FIG. 1 ) wherever recordings arestrictly not allowed (e.g., government offices, office buildings, publicbuildings, movie theatres, banks/ATMs, restrooms, dressing rooms,hospitals, casinos, airport security, entertainment events, etc.).

In some embodiments, in block 810 a GPS sensor/receiver of the ARdigital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) detects locations that are determined tobe restricted (e.g., comparing current location with a known restrictedlocation list, etc.). In block 820, etiquette mode state is initiated bythe AR digital glasses 100. In block 830 the ECD film disconnects fromthe battery 170. In block 840, the ECD film is discharged ofelectricity. In block 850, the liquid crystal molecules of the ECD filmare randomly oriented and will scatter incidental light. In block 860,the ECD film material blocks incoming light sources from passing throughthe ECD film. In block 870, the ECD film material appears opaque, whichhides the cameras (e.g., center camera 155, left and right front cameras156, left and right side cameras 157, FIG. 1 ) and other sensors andcomponents behind the opaque ECD film.

FIG. 9 shows a block flow diagram 900 for the etiquette mode state forthe AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recording protection when inproximity of a DNR signal or beacon, according to some embodiments. Inone or more embodiments, for the etiquette mode state via a “personaldo-not-record beacon” (e.g., ultra-wideband or BLUETOOTH® (UWB/BT)based), the AR digital glasses 100 automatically turns the ECD film (theECD film cover 110, and ECD film placed along the internal portions ofthe frame arms 150 and ear pieces 151) opaque (hiding the cameras (e.g.,center camera 155, left and right front cameras 156, left and right sidecameras 157, FIG. 1 ) and other sensors and components behind). In thisetiquette mode state situation, the AR digital glasses 100 detected a“do-not-record” beacon in close proximity—either placed in a sensitivelocation (e.g., bathroom, etc.) and broadcasting to cover a largergeographical area/location or when another user is wearing such a devicethat broadcasts their desire to not being recorded, acting as a personaldigital cloak.

In some embodiments, in block 910 a user is carrying a device thatbroadcasts UWB “do not record beacon” or in block 915 a location has aBLUETOOTH® based “do not record” beacon. In block 920 the AR digitalglasses 100 detects a UWB beacon when pointed in the direction of theUWB beacon when in close proximity, or in block 925 a BLUETOOTH®receiver or transceiver in the AR digital glasses 100 detects alocation-based beacon. In block 930, the etiquette mode state isinitialized. In block 940 the ECD film disconnects from the battery 170.In block 950, the ECD film is discharged of electricity. In block 960,the liquid crystal molecules of the ECD film are randomly oriented andwill scatter incidental light. In block 970, the ECD film materialblocks incoming light sources from passing through the ECD film. Inblock 980, the ECD film material appears opaque, which hides the cameras(e.g., center camera 155, left and right front cameras 156, left andright side cameras 157, FIG. 1 ) and other sensors and components behindthe opaque ECD film.

FIG. 10 shows a block flow diagram 1000 for the etiquette mode state forthe AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recording protection when inproximity of a physical sign indicating that privacy may be warranted,according to some embodiments. In one or more embodiments, for theetiquette mode state via computer vision and object recognition (e.g.,AI), the AR digital glasses 100 automatically turn the ECD film (the ECDfilm cover 110, and ECD film placed along the internal portions of theframe arms 150 and ear pieces 151) opaque (hiding the cameras (e.g.,center camera 155, left and right front cameras 156, left and right sidecameras 157, FIG. 1 ) and other sensors and components behind, whilehaving detected a sign in the field of view of at least one of thecameras that would warrant a level of privacy (e.g., a washroom sign,“no cameras allowed” sign, etc.). Additionally, computer vision allowsfor facial recognition, so if people do not want to be tracked, acentral database is queried to determine if a user has opted out frombeing recorded. When either of these events are detected, a temporalgeo-fence may be established around the user in which recording by theAR digital glasses 100 is prohibited.

In some embodiments, in block 1010 the AR digital glasses 100 view asign in the field of view. In block 1020 computer vision technology isemployed that recognizes the sign as a “do-not-record” sign.Alternatively, in block 1015 the AR digital glasses 100 detects a humanface in one of the cameras field of view. In block 1025 computer visiontechnology is employed to recognize the human face. In block 1030, theAR digital glasses 100 queries a database of faces and determines thatthe detected face is listed as not allowed to be recorded. After 1020 or1025, the flow diagram 1000 proceeds to block 1040 where the etiquettemode state is initialized. In block 1050 the ECD film disconnects fromthe battery 170. In block 1060, the ECD film is discharged ofelectricity. In block 1070, the liquid crystal molecules of the ECD filmare randomly oriented and will scatter incidental light. In block 1080,the ECD film material blocks incoming light sources from passing throughthe ECD film. In block 1090, the ECD film material appears opaque, whichhides the cameras (e.g., center camera 155, left and right front cameras156, left and right side cameras 157, FIG. 1 ) and other sensors andcomponents behind the opaque ECD film.

FIGS. 11A-B show different mode states of the AR digital glasses 100(FIG. 1 ) with recording protection for the AR mode state (FIG. 11A)with the right frame arm 150 with earpiece 151 opened, and when in aprivacy mode state (FIG. 11B) with the left frame arm 150 with earpiece151 closed (AR mode state is off), according to some embodiments. Asshown, the right frame arm 150 with earpiece 151 is in the AR mode statewith the lighting 510 indication lit, while the left frame arm 150 withearpiece 151 is in the privacy mode state with the lighting 510indication blocked by the opaque appearance of the ECD film (the ECDfilm cover 110, and ECD film placed along the internal portions of theframe arm 150 and earpiece 151).

FIG. 12 shows the AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recordingprotection with both frame arms (frame arms 150 with earpieces 151)folded for the privacy mode state (AR mode state is off), according tosome embodiments. By folding the frame arms, the ECD film (the ECD filmcover 110, and ECD film placed along the internal portions of the framearms 150 and earpieces 151) is automatically transitioned fromtransparent to opaque to block camera (e.g., center camera 155, left andright front cameras 156, left and right side cameras 157, FIG. 1 ) andother sensors and components behind the opaque ECD film.

FIG. 13 shows a block flow diagram 1300 for the privacy mode state (ARmode state off) for the AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recordingprotection, according to some embodiments. In one or more embodiments,by folding the frame arms (frame arms 150 with ear pieces 151) of the ARdigital glasses 100, the ECD film (the ECD film cover 110, and ECD filmplaced along the internal portions of the frame arms 150 and ear pieces151) is automatically transitioned from transparent to opaque to blockcamera (e.g., center camera 155, left and right front cameras 156, leftand right side cameras 157, FIG. 1 ) and other sensors and componentsbehind the opaque ECD film.

In some embodiments, in block 1310 a user initiates the privacy modestate for the AR digital glasses 100 by folding the frame arms. In block1320, the AR digital glasses 100 mechanically separate the power circuit(i.e., open circuit) by folding the frame arms. In block 1330 the ECDfilm material disconnects from the battery 170. In block 1340, the ECDfilm is discharged of electricity. In block 1350, the liquid crystalmolecules of the ECD film are randomly oriented and will scatterincidental light. In block 1360, the ECD film material blocks incominglight sources from passing through the ECD film. In block 1370, the ECDfilm material appears opaque, which in block 1380 hides the cameras(e.g., center camera 155, left and right front cameras 156, left andright side cameras 157, FIG. 1 ) and other sensors and components behindthe opaque ECD film.

FIG. 14 shows a block diagram 1400 of internal components of the ARdigital glasses 100 with recording protection, according to someembodiments. The internal components include the battery 170, thedisplay engine 160 (e.g., a graphical processing unit (GPU), memory,processor(s), mode state processing, communication processing (e.g., forcommunication with other smart device(s), BLUETOOTH®receiver/transceiver, etc.), etc.

FIG. 15 shows the path light takes into the front of the AR digitalglasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recording protection, according to someembodiments. The path the light source (natural or artificial) 1520takes into the front of the AR digital glasses 100 will follow a path inorder to allow the user to see through the AR digital glasses 100, withthe prescription lens 140 layer as optional. Light will also follow pathto the front-facing cameras 1530 (e.g., center camera 155, left andright front cameras 156) to operate, however this path of light willomit the prescription lens 140 layer as this is not required by thecameras. Additionally, this light source 1520 path is forced through theECD film 110 layer to ensure a physical layer of security of preventingthe front cameras 1530 of properly receiving the light required torecord. This is the embedded physical layer of security.

FIG. 16 shows a flow diagram 1600 for a DNR geographical signal orbeacon being present for the AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) withrecording protection, according to some embodiments. On one or moreembodiments, using BLUETOOTH®, UWB or similar short-range technologies,a beacon may be placed in a location requiring privacy. The beacon willinitiate a handshake with any nearby electronic devices stating theprivacy level required in the zone that is blanketed by radio frequency(RF). This handshake will: a) verify the authenticity of the beacon, b)stipulate the conditions of the privacy zone (time, geography, devicetype, etc.) and c) if a user-selected override is allowed. If theuser-selectable override is possible, the user's electronic deviceidentification (ID) and other unique identifiers may be logged by thebeacon for security purposes. A global database, accessible via theInternet, contains the complete record of all DNR beacon (DNRB)locations and unique IDs. For enterprise/private use, a local databasemay be queue.

In some embodiments, in block 1605 the AR digital glasses 100 detects aDNRB broadcast message. In block 1610 the DNRB ID is extracted from thebroadcast message. In block 1620 it is determined whether the DNRB ID isfound in local cache memory 1645 of the AR digital glasses 100 or not(e.g., recently been here already). If the DNRB ID is found in the localcache memory 1645 of the AR digital glasses 100, the flow proceeds toblock 1625 where it is determined whether a time to live (TTL) for theDNRB ID has expired or not. If it is determined that the TTL for theDNRB ID is expired, the flow proceeds to block 1640, otherwise the flowproceeds to block 1650. If it is determined that the DNRB ID is not inthe local cache memory 1645, the flow proceeds to block 1630. In block1630 the AR digital glasses 100 performs a lookup process for the DNRBID in a global database. The flow then proceeds to block 1635.

In some embodiments, in block 1635 it is determined whether the DNRB IDis valid or not. If it is determined that the DNRB ID is not valid, theflow proceeds to block 1675, otherwise the flow proceeds to block 1640.In block 1640 the AR digital glasses 100 requests zone exceptions forthe DNR area and stores the zone exceptions into the local cache memory1645. In block 1675 the cameras (e.g., center camera 155, left and rightfront cameras 156, left and right side cameras 157, FIG. 1 ) of the ARdigital glasses 100 are unblocked by the ECD film (the ECD film cover110, and ECD film placed along the internal portions of the frame arms150 and earpieces 151) being connected to the battery 170.

In one or more embodiments, in block 1650 it is determined whether anyexceptions (e.g., exceptions provided by the DNRB administrator forcertain situations, events, portions of a zone, etc.) are allowed. Ifthere are no exceptions that are allowed, the flow 1600 proceeds toblock 1655 where the cameras of the AR digital glasses 100 are notallowed to record by disconnecting the battery 170 to the ECD film. Ifit is determined in block 1650 that exceptions are allowed for the zone,in block 1660 it is determined which electronic device types are allowedto record. If it is determined that the electronic device is not allowedto record, the flow 1600 proceeds to block 1685. In block 1685 it isdetermined whether a DNRB override (e.g., certain users may be providedan override, such as an event promotor, a news organization, security,etc.) is allowed or not. If no overrides are permitted, the flowproceeds to block 1655 where the cameras are not allowed to record byremoving the battery 170 from the ECD film, which turns the ECD filmopaque.

In some embodiments, if block 1660 determines that the AR digitalglasses 100 is an allowed device type, the flow 1600 proceeds to block1665. In block 1665 it is determined whether the current time of day isallowed for recording by the cameras of the AR digital glasses 100. Ifthe current time is not allowed recording by the cameras of the ARdigital glasses 100, the flow 1600 proceeds to block 1685. If it isdetermined in block 1685 that a DNRB override is allowed, then in block1690 the user is prompted whether they want to override the DNRBpermissions or not. In block 1695 if it is determined that the DNRBoverride is not desired by the user, then the flow 1600 proceeds toblock 1655 and the cameras are not allowed to record by removing thebattery 170 from the ECD film. If it is determined that the user doeswant to override the DNRB permissions, then the flow 1600 proceeds toblock 1680 where the user's electronic device ID is transmitted orcommunicated to the DNRB database for logging and the cameras areallowed to record in block 1675.

In one or more embodiments, if it is determined in block 1665 that thecurrent time of day is permitted to record by the AR digital glasses100, then the flow 1600 proceeds to block 1670. In block 1670 it isdetermined whether the current position (latitude/longitude, eventlocation, etc.) is allowed or permitted to record by the cameras, theflow 1600 proceeds to block 1675 and the cameras of the AR digitalglasses 100 are allowed to record and the ECD film is connected to thebattery making the ECD film transparent. Otherwise, if in block 1670 itis determined that the location is not permitted to be recorded, theflow 1600 proceeds to block 1685.

FIG. 17A shows a flow diagram 1700 for a DNR personal signal or beaconbeing present for the AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recordingprotection, according to some embodiments. FIG. 17B shows a table fordifferent scenarios 1780, the state 1785 and description 1790 for theflow diagram 1700 in FIG. 17A, according to some embodiments. In one ormore embodiments, the flow diagram 1700 relates to use of a personalbeacon and digital cloaking. Using UWB or similar directional/vectorbased short-range technologies, an electronic device on or with a usermay signal to other electronic devices its intention for the scenarios1780 to, a) fully open interaction where permission to be recorded isgranted and identified, b) open interaction with face blurring wherepermission to be recorded and identified is granted, but only if theirface is blurred or concealed, c) reveal identity, but do not recordwhere the user is not to be recorded but permission is granted to beidentified, d) reveal alias and allow recording where the user isidentified using an alias/handle/virtual ID and permission is granted tobe recorded, e) reveal alias with face blurring where the user isidentified using alias/handle/virtual ID and permission is granted forthe user to be recorded, but only if their face is blurred, f) revealalias but do not record where permission is denied for recording butgranted to be identified using alias/handle/virtual ID or g) fullyblocked where no digital interaction is permitted. In some embodiments,in a public arena, the permissions would be implemented using the vectormechanics of the vector-based RF technology—so the direction and lengthof the vector would be taken into account when implementing the cloakingprotocol. That is, the distance away to the other person and thedirection of that person would indicate when to apply the digital cloak.The AR digital glasses 100 are uniquely always pointing in the directionthat the user is looking at, thus the RF vector calculation is alwayscorrectly oriented without any additional calibration or inference ofwhich direction is forward within the user experience. For face blurringto occur, the computer vision and face recognition engine of the displayengine 160 (FIG. 1 ) on the AR digital glasses 100 must be able tosuccessfully locate and identify the face of the person to be blurred.

Returning to FIG. 17A, in one or more embodiments, in block 1705 the ARdigital glasses 100 detects a DNRB broadcast message. In block 1710 theAR digital glasses 100 evaluates distance and direction of the sender ofthe DNRB broadcast message. In block 1715, the AR digital glasses 100downloads the DNRB permissions. In block 1720 it is determined if theDNRB message includes permissions for fully blocked (scenario G, FIG.17B). If it is determined that the DNRB message includes permissions forfully blocked, the flow 1700 proceeds to block 1745 and the cameras(e.g., center camera 155, left and right front cameras 156, left andright side cameras 157, FIG. 1 ) are not permitted to record in thedirection of the DNRB. Otherwise, in block 1725 the electronic device IDis stored in memory of the AR digital glasses 100. In block 1730 it isdetermined whether the DNBR message permits sharing of an alias ID. Ifit is determined that the DNBR message does not permit sharing of analias ID, the flow 1700 proceeds to block 1740 and stores the user ID inmemory of the AR digital glasses 100 (for scenarios A, B and C, FIG.17B) and proceeds to block 1750. Otherwise, the flow 1700 proceeds toblock 1735 and stores the user ID in memory of the AR digital glasses100 (for scenarios D, E and F, FIG. 17B) and proceeds to block 1750.

In some embodiments, in block 1750 it is determined whether the DNBRmessage requires blurring of a face. If the DNBR message does notrequire blurring of a face, the flow 1700 proceeds to block 1775 whereit is determined whether the DNBR message permits recording of aperson's face. If it is determined that the DNBR message does not permitrecording of a person's face (for scenarios C and F, FIG. 17B), the flow1700 proceeds to block 1745. If it is determined that the DNBR permitsblurring a person's face in block 1750, then the flow 1700 proceeds toblock 1755 and the AR digital glasses 100 records the camera viewedfootage and proceeds to block 1760. In block 1760, computer visiontechnology is used to apply the face blurring effect and in block 1765the recorded footage is stored in memory of the AR digital glasses 100.If in block 1775 it is determined that the DNBR message permitsrecording of a person's face, the flow 1700 proceeds to block 1770. Inblock 1770, the AR digital glasses 100 records the camera viewed footageand proceeds to block 1765 and the recorded footage is stored in memoryof the AR digital glasses 100.

In some embodiments, in any environment where DNR beacons are enforcedfor a geography and/or an individual, the AR digital glasses 100interface is able to display those zones in three-dimensional (3D) spacewhile the user is wearing the AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 )—in orderto assist the user to avoid those areas if they choose to. Similarly,there is a visual indicator inserted or overlayed over the user or theuser's face to show they do not want to be recorded when they are in thefield of view of the cameras (e.g., center camera 155, left and rightfront cameras 156, left and right side cameras 157, FIG. 1 ) of the ARdigital glasses 100.

FIGS. 18A-B show an example of signal or beacon zones used for multipleDNR zones or for zones where recording is allowed for persons present inview of the AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) that have recordingprotection, according to some embodiments. In FIG. 18A, people 1805 haveDNR zone permissions shown from top view and the person 1820 has recordpermission for the AR digital glasses 100 worn by person 1810. In one ormore embodiments, when the DNRB message is detected, the person 1810 isnotified visually or through text on a user interface (UI) to not recordin a zone, for object or for people. FIG. 18B shows an isometric view ofa person 1805 shown with a DNR zone around them formed when the person1810 is wearing the AR digital glasses 100 and received the DNRB messagewith DNR permission. In some embodiments, the AR digital glasses 100includes an interface representation of the DNR that is triggered basedon various data points from the etiquette mode state. In a live view,the user is provided a display including a live marker (visual or textnotification) overlaying or around the DNR object or zone. If the userof the AR digital glasses 100 still chooses to record, then theresulting media (e.g., video, image, 3D media, etc.) visually blocks theDNRB zone/object. When the DNRB message is detected, user gets notifiedvisually or text interface to not record a certain zone/object. ThisInterface representation of the DNR is triggered when computer visionprocessing detects a DNR zone/object.

FIGS. 19A-B shows an example of a DNR signal or beacon zone 1910 for abuilding or structure in view of the AR digital glasses 100 withrecording protection (as worn by the user 1810), according to someembodiments. FIG. 19A shows a top view of the user 1810, zones and theDNR signal or beacon zone 1910. FIG. 19B shows a live view where theuser 1810 sees a live marker shown, for example, as an outline (or textnotification) overlaying or around the DNR object or beacon zone 1910.If the user 1810 still chooses to record, then the resulting media(video or image) will visually block the DNRB object or beacon zone1910.

FIG. 20A shows an example of full pixilation filter and partial visualblocking filter for the AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recordingprotection, according to some embodiments. In the illustrated example,the person 2010 in the live view image displayed on the AR digitalglasses 100 has permissions to record or no DNRB message, and thereforeis displayed without blurring. The other persons have a DNRB messageindicating blurring permissions and are shown with blurred faces withbrackets (or focus brackets) 2020, 2021 and 2022. In some embodiments,the user interface considerations may be employed as follows. When a DNRbeacon, signal or indication is detected on a person/human/pet, a visualblocking occurs in the final output of the recording (providing a userof the AR digital glasses 100 continued with recording). These visualblocking indications may be represented on humans and pets in differentways. The person can choose to block their face or entire body. Theperson can choose different ways of blocking mechanisms such asblurring, pixilation or overlaying shapes, animations, objects, GIFs,textures, colors and AR shapes/filters to keep their privacy anddisguise and obscure any form of visual identification data (e.g.,nametags, text on clothing, jewelry, etc.). The amount of obscuring isdefined by the authority and the person. For example, no restriction,partial restriction, full restriction. This visual blocking can be seenin live action through the AR digital glasses 100 and can be seen onlywhen recorded output or media is replayed and viewed.

In some embodiments, there is a visual user interface indicator when theAR digital glasses 100 identifies a DNRB message or enters the etiquettemode state. The DNR zone, object or person action is triggered based ondefined factors in the etiquette mode state. For example, accuracy ofcomputer vision, geographical location, voices, context, etc. In one ormore embodiments, a combination of these results triggers the visualblocking of object/building/person/pet.

FIG. 20B shows an example of using AR virtual elements (2035, 2050 and2051) for information and for partial disguise of a person 2030 from theperspective of the AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recordingprotection, according to some embodiments. In this example embodiment,the person 2030 is obscured with an AR filter for obscuring their face(based on a DNRB message permitting recording but with obscuring). Thevisual AR virtual element 2035 is viewed over the person 2030 andindicates in text “AR Persona.” Additionally, the AR virtual element2050 shows distance to a destination (e.g., for the wearer of the ARdigital glasses 100) and the AR virtual element 2051 shows a virtualpathway to the destination. The person 2040 is permitted to be recordedand is unobscured.

In the world of AR and/or virtual reality (VR) and wearables withcameras, there is a societal aversion towards the fear of being recordedwithout the knowledge of the non-wearer. This has shown itself toseverely hinder the acceptance of existing products and can lead tonomenclature directed to unacceptance of the technology as the result ofnot being fully transparent to the larger public. Similarly, there is anatural aversion to wanting to wear such technology—that is, wearablesmust be “lifestyle” devices in order to gain mass market adoption. Thus,the ability to dynamically control the transparency of a physicalcontainer will allow development of AR/VR products to appear as normalglasses when the device and camera are not in use—thus appearing as anormal lifestyle product. In some embodiments, when the user is usingthe AR digital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) and/or using the cameras (centercamera 155, left and right front cameras 156, left and right sidecameras 157), however, making the glasses transparent reveals thetechnology within to allow the non-wearers in the surrounding area tounderstand that there is a technological event occurring—so in form itis a version of full disclosure—which is the first step in having usersbegin to build trust in the technology and then next into acceptance ofthe technology. Some embodiments using this technology applies to anywearable computing device (e.g., pendants, body cams, headwear cams,etc.), where public disclosure of the fact that the wearable includesthis technology would aid in user adoption of the technology.

FIG. 21 shows a block diagram 2100 of electronic components for the ARdigital glasses 100 (FIG. 1 ) with recording protection, according tosome embodiments. In one or more embodiments, the AR digital glasses 100may include a processor 2110, a display 2120, a camera set 2130 (e.g.,including (center camera 155, left and right front cameras 156, left andright side cameras 157), a communicator 2140, a motion sensor 2150, anilluminance sensor 2160, and a memory 2170. The processor 2110 maycontrol the display 2120 to display information processed by the ARdigital glasses 100. The processor 2110 may, for example, control thedisplay 2120 to display a user interface for controlling the AR digitalglasses 100, a user interface for displaying a state of the AR digitalglasses 100, etc.

In some embodiments, the processor 2110 may obtain a preview imagethrough the camera set 2130 of the AR digital glasses 100. The processor2110 may track the direction of a gaze of the user wearing the ARdigital glasses 100. The processor 2110 may determine at least oneobject of interest in a preview image, based on the tracked direction ofthe gaze. The processor 2110 may, for example, determine an object ofinterest in the preview image, based on image analysis with respect to aregion corresponding to the tracked gaze direction in the preview image.The processor 2110 may obtain local motion information indicating amovement of an object of interest by tracking a movement of the at leastone object of interest. The processor 2110 may, for example, track theposition change of the object of interest in each frame of the previewimage and obtain the local motion information based on a result oftracking the position change.

In one or more embodiments, the processor 2110 may control the motionsensor 2150 to measure a movement of the AR digital glasses 100. Theprocessor 2110 may, for example, control the motion sensor 2150 tomeasure at least one of a position, a direction, a speed, or anacceleration of the AR digital glasses 100. In some embodiments, themotion sensor 2150 may also include a GPS receiver. The processor 2110may obtain global motion information indicating motion of a backgroundregion included in the preview image, based on the measured movement ofthe AR digital glasses 100. The processor 2110 may, for example,determine a background region included in the preview image, and track amovement of the background region based on a result of measuringmovement of the AR digital glasses 100. The AR digital glasses 100 mayobtain the global motion information based on a result of tracking themovement of the AR digital glasses 100.

In one or more embodiments, the processor 2110 may adjust the degree ofexposure of a camera in the camera set 2130 capturing the front of theAR digital glasses 100, based on the obtained local motion informationor global motion information. The processor 2110 may control theilluminance sensor 2160 to measure an illuminance around the AR digitalglasses 100. The processor 2110 may adjust the degree of exposure of acamera in the camera set 2130 capturing a view of the AR digital glasses100, based on the measured illuminance around the AR digital glasses100. The processor 2110 may, for example, adjust at least one of an ISOvalue, a shutter speed, or an aperture value of a camera in the cameraset 2130 photographing a view of the AR digital glasses 100 to adjustthe degree of exposure of the camera 2130 capturing the view of the ARdigital glasses 100.

In some embodiments, the processor 2110 may, for example, identify anilluminance of an object of interest in a preview image. The processor2110 may determine a shutter speed range by comparing the illuminancearound the AR digital glasses 100, measured through the illuminancesensor 2160 with the identified illuminance of the object of interest.The processor 2110 may determine an International Organization ofStandardization (ISO) value range based on the determined shutter speedrange. The processor 2110 may, for example, identify a depth of anobject of interest in the preview image and determine an aperture valuerange based on the identified depth.

In one or more embodiments, the processor 2110 may generate a controlcommand for adjusting at least one of the ISO value, the shutter speed,or the aperture value of the camera 2130, based on the determinedshutter speed range, the determined ISO value range, and the determinedaperture value range. The processor 2110 may deliver the generatedcontrol command to any of the cameras in the camera set 2130. Theprocessor 2110 may control any camera in the camera set 2130 having theadjusted degree of exposure to photograph the front of the AR digitalglasses 100.

In some embodiments, the communicator 2140 may include one or morecommunication devices or modules for communication with an externaldevice. The communicator 2140 may, for example, include a short-rangecommunicator and a mobile communicator. The short-range communicator mayinclude, but not limited to, a BLUETOOTH® low energy (BLE) communicationunit, a near field communication (NFC) unit, a wireless local areanetwork (WLAN) (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a ZIGBEE® communication unit,an infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct(WFD) communication unit, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication unit, anANT+® communication unit, etc. The mobile communicator may transmit andreceive a radio signal to and from at least one of a base station, anexternal terminal, and a server over a mobile communication network. Theradio signal may include various forms of data corresponding totransmission/reception of a voice call signal, a video communicationcall signal, or a text/multimedia message.

In one or more embodiments, the memory 2170 may store a program forcontrolling an operation of the AR digital glasses 100. The memory 2170may include at least one instruction for controlling an operation of theAR digital glasses 100. The programs stored in the memory 2170 may beclassified into a plurality of units or modules according to functionsthereof. The memory 2170 may include at least one type of storage mediumamong flash memory, a hard disk, a multimedia card micro, card-typememory (e.g., secure digital (SD) or extreme digital (XD) memory),random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM),read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM),programmable ROM (PROM), magnetic memory, a magnetic disc, an opticaldisc, etc. Some embodiments may be implemented with a recording mediumincluding a computer-executable instruction such as acomputer-executable programming module. A computer-readable recordingmedium may be an available medium that is accessible by a computer, andincludes any or all of a volatile medium, a non-volatile medium, aseparated medium, and a non-separated medium. The computer-readablerecording medium may also include a computer storage medium. Thecomputer storage medium includes all of a volatile medium, anon-volatile medium, a separated medium, and a non-separated medium, andmay be implemented by a method or technique for storing information suchas a computer-readable instruction, a data structure, a programmingmodule, other data, etc. The storage medium may be provided as anon-transitory storage medium such that the storage medium does notinclude a signal and is tangible but does not indicate whether data isstored in the storage medium semi-permanently or temporarily. The term“unit” may be a hardware component such as a processor or a circuit,and/or a software component executed by a hardware component such as aprocessor device.

References in the claims to an element in the singular is not intendedto mean “one and only” unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one ormore.” All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of theabove-described exemplary embodiment that are currently known or latercome to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are intended tobe encompassed by the present claims. No claim element herein is to beconstrued under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. section 112, sixthparagraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase“means for” or “step for.”

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. Asused herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify thepresence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements,and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of oneor more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements,components, and/or groups thereof.

The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of allmeans or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended toinclude any structure, material, or act for performing the function incombination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. Thedescription of the embodiments has been presented for purposes ofillustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive orlimited to the embodiments in the form disclosed. Many modifications andvariations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artwithout departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

Though embodiments have been described with reference to certainversions thereof; however, other versions are possible. Therefore, thespirit and scope of the embodiments should not be limited to thedescription of the preferred versions contained herein.

1. An augmented reality (AR) device comprising: a frame; a plurality offront facing cameras coupled with the frame; a first electrochromicmaterial coupled with the frame, removably coupled to a power source,and disposed over the plurality of front facing cameras; and AR displaycircuitry coupled to the frame and the power source, wherein a modestate of the AR device is modified based on a detected do-not-recordpermission.
 2. The AR device of claim 1, further comprising: a first armrotatably coupled to the frame, the first arm including a secondelectrochromic material removably coupled with the power source; and asecond arm rotatably coupled to the frame, the second arm including athird electrochromic material removably coupled with the power source.3. The AR device of claim 2, wherein: the first arm includes a firsthinge with a first electrical connector; and the second arm includes asecond hinge with a second electrical connector; wherein the first hingeremovably couples the first electrical connector with the power source,and the second hinge removably couples the second electrical connectorwith the power source.
 4. The AR device of claim 3, wherein: the frameis a glasses frame; the mode state of the AR device modifiestransparency of the first electrochromic material, the secondelectrochromic material and for the third electrochromic material basedon respective position of the first arm and the second arm; and thefirst electrochromic material is disposed over the plurality of frontfacing cameras.
 5. The AR device of claim 4, further comprising: a firstside facing camera coupled to the first arm; and a second side facingcamera coupled to the second arm; wherein the second electrochromicmaterial is disposed over the first side facing camera, and the thirdelectrochromic material is disposed over the second side facing camera.6. The AR device of claim 2, wherein: the mode state of the AR device isone of an AR mode state, an etiquette mode state and a privacy modestate; the first electrochromic material, the second electrochromicmaterial and the third electrochromic material are each transparent oropaque based on the mode state of the AR device; and the mode state ofthe AR device indicates whether the plurality of front facing cameras,the first side facing camera and the second side facing camera arerecording images.
 7. The AR device of claim 6, wherein the AR modestate, the etiquette mode state and the privacy mode state are eachentered into by the AR device based on location of the AR device, apreference for not being recorded by an individual or location, apersonal do-not-record beacon, a geographical beacon or a combinationthereof.
 8. The AR device of claim 7, wherein the AR mode state of theAR device modifies a recording result for images including blurring,pixilation or overlaying shapes, textures and colors using AR filters tomaintain privacy by disguising or obscuring visual identification data.9. An augmented reality (AR) wearable device comprising: a frame coupledwith a first folding arm and a second folding arm; a plurality of frontfacing cameras coupled with the frame; a first electrochromic materialcoupled with the frame, removably coupled to a power source, anddisposed over the plurality of front facing cameras; and AR displaycircuitry coupled with the frame and the power source, wherein a modestate of the AR wearable device provides a viewable indication of one ormore recording permissions based on charging or discharging of energyfrom the first electrochromic material.
 10. The AR wearable device ofclaim 9, further comprising: a second electrochromic material coupled tothe first folding arm and removably coupled with the power source; and athird electrochromic material coupled to the second folding arm andremovably coupled with the power source.
 11. The AR wearable device ofclaim 10, wherein: the first folding arm includes a first hinge with afirst electrical connector; and the second folding arm includes a secondhinge with a second electrical connector; wherein the first hingeremovably couples the first electrical connector with the power source,and the second hinge removably couples the second electrical connectorwith the power source.
 12. The AR wearable device of claim 11, wherein:the frame is a glasses frame; the mode state of the AR wearable devicemodifies transparency of the second electrochromic material and for thethird electrochromic material based on a received recording permissionand respective position of the first folding arm and the second foldingarm; and the first electrochromic material is disposed over theplurality of front facing cameras.
 13. The AR wearable device of claim12, further comprising: a first side facing camera coupled to the firstfolding arm; and a second side facing camera coupled to the secondfolding arm; wherein the second electrochromic material is disposed overthe first side facing camera, and the third electrochromic material isdisposed over the second side facing camera.
 14. The AR wearable deviceof claim 10, wherein: the mode state of the AR wearable device is one ofan AR mode state, an etiquette mode state and a privacy mode state; thefirst electrochromic material, the second electrochromic material andthe third electrochromic material are each transparent or opaque basedon the mode state of the AR wearable device; and the mode state of theAR wearable device indicates whether the plurality of front facingcameras, the first side facing camera and the second side facing cameraare recording images.
 15. The AR wearable device of claim 14, wherein:the AR mode state, the etiquette mode state and the privacy mode stateare each entered into by the wearable AR device based on location of theAR wearable device, a preference for not being recorded by an individualor location, a personal do-not-record beacon, a geographical beacon or acombination thereof; and the AR mode state of the AR wearable deviceprovides a recording result for images including blurring, pixilation oroverlaying shapes, textures and colors using AR filters to maintainprivacy by disguising or obscuring visual identification data.
 16. Amethod for wearable device image recording privacy, the methodcomprising: detecting, by an augmented reality (AR) device including atleast one camera, a signal or informative image; extracting informationfrom the signal or the informative image for determining do-not-recordpermission; determining a zone for the determined do-not-recordpermission; detecting, by the AR device, a current location with respectto the zone; and modifying an electrochromic material of the AR deviceor a recorded image result based on the determined do-not-recordpermission.
 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: modifying amode state of the AR device based on the determined do-not-recordpermission; and the mode state of the AR device is one of an AR modestate, an etiquette mode state and a privacy mode state.
 18. The methodof claim 17, wherein: the electrochromic material is transparent oropaque based on the mode state of the AR device; and the mode state ofthe AR device and the electrochromic material indicates whether the atleast one camera is able to record images.
 19. The method of claim 18,wherein the AR mode, the etiquette mode state and the privacy mode stateare each entered into by the AR device based on the current location ofthe AR device, a preference for not being recorded by an individual orlocation, a personal do-not-record beacon, a geographical beacon or acombination thereof.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the AR modestate of the AR device provides a recording result for images thatincludes blurring, pixilation or overlaying shapes, textures and colorsusing AR filters to maintain privacy by disguising or obscuring visualidentification data.